Best Cheap Central Park, New York Hotels

The vast green expanse of Central Park is an iconic and much-loved symbol of New York. Visitors are sure to recognize several spots in this National Historic Landmark from movie classics and TV hits like Breakfast at Tiffany’s, When Harry Met Sally, and Sex and the City. Locals and tourists alike flock to the park’s 843 acres of open green spaces, blooming flower gardens, and wooded walkways to take a breather and enjoy some much-needed downtime.

Hotels near Central Park

Given their unbeatable location on prime NYC real estate, it’s no surprise that hotels around Central Park are the epitome of sophistication. Travelers looking for a taste of luxury will find an array of 5-star Central Park hotels that fit the bill perfectly. Revel in the opulent Beaux-Arts décor of the world-famous Plaza Hotel and treat yourself to afternoon tea in the hotel’s legendary Palm Court. Or check into The Mark on Madison Avenue, with lavish interiors by acclaimed designer Jacques Grange. There’s also a good selection of affordable accommodation near Central Park like Herrick Guest Suites, providing rental apartments in a classic brownstone on 74th Street.

Things to see in Central Park

Your first port of call should be Belvedere Castle, which offers panoramic views and houses Central Park’s very own weather station. Another top-notch lookout is Bethesda Terrace and Fountain at the heart of the park, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the lake and woods. Rowboats and kayaks are available to rent from Loeb Boathouse, which also boasts an outdoor restaurant overlooking the lake. If you’re visiting in summer, why not take in a free play at the open-air Delacorte Theater, which hosts the annual Shakespeare in the Park festival? In the winter months, go skating in one of the park’s 2 ice rinks, a time-honored New York tradition. The park is also home to the beloved Central Park Zoo—featuring exotic critters like snow leopards and tropical birds—as well as Strawberry Fields, where you can pay homage to John Lennon at the renowned Imagine mosaic.

Good for families and couples

With so much to see and do nearby, hotels around Central Park offer the perfect base for a family vacation. Take a break from sightseeing downtown and blow off some steam with a bike tour of the park, by far the best way to explore its many nooks and crannies. Kids will be on cloud nine with 21 playgrounds to choose from, as well as the historic carousel, one of the park’s most famous attractions. Central Park is also the perfect spot for couples on a romantic getaway—snap a selfie on the picturesque Bow Bridge before taking a memorable horse-and-carriage ride around the park.

How to get to Central Park

New York is served by 3 airports: international flights come through JFK and Newark, while LaGuardia handles domestic services. The AirTrain conveniently connects JFK to the public transportation network: change at Jamaica Station and hop on the subway to downtown Manhattan. From LaGuardia, the M60 bus will bring you straight to upper Manhattan, and cabs and car rentals are also widely available. Once you’ve touched base and are ready to explore, the easiest way to travel to Central Park is by subway. There are several stops in the area, and the park is also served by a number of public bus routes.